Wildlife
Wildlife include, but not limited to:
1) Long-tail bats - "Nationally Critical"
2) Native fish species including
a) Shortfin Eel
b) Longfin Eel - ‘At Risk - Declining’
c) Cran's Bully
d) Freshwater Crayfish.
Refer also Cultural Section
1) Long-tailed bat (pekapeka-tou-roa) - Status "Nationally Critical"
The long-tailed bat (Chalinolobus tuberculatus), known as pekapeka-tou-roa in Māori, is one of New Zealand's two native land mammals and can be found in the Karapiro Gully. These bats are a critical part of the region's biodiversity, living in the gully’s forested habitats. They roost in tree hollows and crevices during the day, emerging at dusk to hunt for insects like moths, beetles, and flies.
Long-tailed bats are small and are agile fliers, capable of navigating dense forest and open spaces alike. They use echolocation to hunt and are most active at night. Unlike many other bats, New Zealand’s long-tailed bats are terrestrial foragers, often flying close to the ground, river banks or water surfaces as they seek food.
Unfortunately, these bats are classified as "Nationally Critical" due to habitat loss and predation by introduced species like rats, stoats, and cats. The Karapiro Gully, with its pockets of old-growth trees and diverse insect life, provides a vital refuge for them. Conservation of the Karapiro Gully is essential to preserving their population, as these bats are slow breeders and highly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Their presence in the Karapiro Gully highlights the area's ecological significance, as long-tailed bats are considered indicator species, meaning their health reflects the overall condition of the local ecosystem. Protecting their habitats contributes to the preservation of the entire gully’s biodiversity and ensures the survival of this unique and endangered mammal.
1) Shortfin Eel (Tuna)
The shortfin eel (tuna) holds significant cultural value for Māori as a traditional food source and symbol of environmental sustainability. Eel fishing, or tuna heke, was a communal activity, and specific methods were passed down to ensure the sustainable harvest of eels. The health of tuna populations is closely tied to the environment, as they thrive in clean, well-managed waterways. The presence of tuna in the Karapiro Stream is an indicator of a healthy freshwater ecosystem, aligning with Māori values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship), which emphasizes the protection of natural resources for future generations.
2) Longfin Eel (Tuna Kuwharuwharu) - Status: At Risk - Declining
Longfin eels (tuna kuwharuwharu) are considered taonga (treasures) in Māori culture, reflecting their deep connection to Māori cosmology and traditional practices. The long lifespan and migratory nature of these eels symbolize resilience and the cyclical nature of life. Māori traditionally managed eel populations through sustainable harvesting practices, such as building pa tuna (eel weirs). The health of tuna kuwharuwharu populations is directly linked to the quality of the freshwater environment, as these eels are highly sensitive to pollution and habitat degradation. The conservation of longfin eels and their habitats in places like the Karapiro Stream supports both cultural values and environmental protection, reinforcing the interdependence of people and ecosystems.
3) Cran's Bully (Toitoi)
Cran’s bully (toitoi) is an integral part of New Zealand’s freshwater ecosystem, contributing to the overall health and biodiversity of streams like the Karapiro. Although toitoi are not a major food source for Māori, their presence is valued as an important part of the aquatic food web, supporting species such as tuna. In Māori culture, the health of toitoi populations is seen as an indicator of the mauri (life force) of the stream, reflecting the quality of the environment. Clean, unpolluted water is crucial for the survival of toitoi, making their conservation an important part of maintaining ecological balance and supporting larger species within the freshwater habitat.
4) Freshwater Crayfish (Koura)
Freshwater crayfish (koura) are culturally significant to Māori as a traditional food source and symbol of a healthy aquatic environment. The presence of koura in streams like the Karapiro is often viewed as a sign of good water quality, as they are highly sensitive to pollution. Māori concepts of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) emphasize the protection of such species, ensuring the vitality of freshwater ecosystems for future generations. In addition to their cultural value, koura play an important ecological role, contributing to nutrient recycling and maintaining the overall health of the stream environment. Conservation of koura reflects both a cultural commitment and an environmental responsibility to protect freshwater habitats from degradation.
